What your dog’s sleeping position reveals

Every dog is different. Some pups like to sleep under the blankets, others on a hard surface, and other snuggled up next to their sibling. If you’ve noticed your dog’s sleeping position, it turns out it can actually tell you a little bit about them. Keep reading to find out what your dog’s sleeping position reveals about them.

Curling up in a ball to sleep is a hard-wired instinct for some dogs. After all, their ancestors slept outside and curled up tightly for warmth, and also to protect their vital organs from attackers while they were vulnerable. But your dog may curl up for the sheer reason that it’s just comfy. Whatever the reason, veterinarian, Dr Jeff Werber, says dogs who sleep in the donut position might prefer a cuddler or bolster type bed that surrounds them to feel a little more secure.

It’s comical to see your fur baby all sprawled out on her belly with her front legs extended out and hind legs relaxed. She looks as if she’s getting in a good stretch in after an active day at the dog park – and she just may be, as dogs who sleep in this ‘Superman’ position are generally very active and playful. Dr Werber suggests a mattress style bed for dogs who like to let it all hang out.

If your ageing pup has always slept in bed with you or on the sofa, it might be time to introduce him to a new bed that will age with him and is easier for him to get into, i.e. no jumping required. “Some dogs might require an orthopaedic bed as they get older to help support their aging joints when lying down and getting up,” says Dr Werber. Your dog’s nutritional needs change as they age, too.

Breeds like the Dachshund are genetically geared to burrow because they were originally bred to flush out tunnelling critters like rabbits and foxes. If your dog likes to burrow and sleep under the blankets, a hooded dog bed might be a good choice to mimic her instinctual sleeping habitat. Hooded beds might also be a cosy and warm place to settle in for breeds like terriers or Chihuahuas who are a bit more sensitive to cold and favour cosy, warm places.

Maybe your dog is fed up with your active sleep patterns and tired of getting pushed out of bed, or she’s got an independent streak. “Some dogs may prefer to have their own space that’s safely elevated and removed from the action,” says veterinarian, Dr Lilian Wong.

So you’ve observed your fur baby while he sleeps and discovered he doesn’t have a regular dog sleeping position. Sometimes he’s all cute and snuggly in a ball and other times he looks like a contortionist, all sprawled out on his back with his paws and body defying logic. A dog bed that folds out is a great choice for the nights he wants to spread out, and on the nights he wants to cosy it up, the bed transforms into a compact sofa cushion.

A cosy and comfy bed is a must for any dog, no matter what dog sleeping position they choose. But when your pooch has arthritis, it’s crucial to provide comfort for achy joints while they nap or sleep. Dr Wong suggests an orthopaedic mat or a memory foam bed. “Some dogs prefer a low-to-the-ground option that doesn’t require stepping up or over into a bed, so it may take some trial and error to find the best solution for your pet,” she says. “Given some arthritic pets may have a hard time going up and down stairs, accessibility to a comfortable dog bed on each floor of your home is ideal.”

The dog days of summer are no picnic for dogs if they have a coat that is long, thick, or dark. It’s not always possible to find a cool spot in the shade, especially if your dog wants to be close to you. Elevated cooling cots are ideal for poolside, hanging out in the backyard, or taking your dog camping with the family. And if you don’t have air conditioning in your home, your dog will really appreciate a cool place to catch some zzz’s.

Pet beds can take up a lot of space when you have a couple of dogs or a combo of cats and dogs. Wouldn’t it be nice if your fur babies could share a large bed? (Plus, it would undeniably be cute to see them spoon!) “In houses with multiple pets, see how they interact with one another,” suggests Dr Wong. “If your pets are constantly by each other’s side, they may prefer to sleep next to each other.” When your fur family gets along, a large bed designed for multiple pets is a wise investment.